Donald Trump has long faced challenges in gaining the trust and support of women voters. To address this, the former president took part in a Fox News town hall event in Georgia, engaging with an all-woman audience. With Harris Faulkner as the moderator, Donald Trump answered questions on issues ranging from childcare to immigration, making an effort to appeal to female voters ahead of the 2024 election.
One of his most headline-grabbing remarks came when he proclaimed himself the “father of IVF,” sparking both confusion and criticism. Trump’s campaign later clarified it was intended as a joke, but the comment underscores his vulnerability with female voters, especially regarding reproductive health issues. This event marked a significant attempt by Trump to reshape his image among women, a group he has struggled to win over in previous elections.
Donald Trump’s “Father of IVF” Claim: A Misstep with Women?
At the town hall, Trump declared himself the “father of IVF” when answering a question on fertility treatment, an issue particularly important to many women. While the comment was meant humorously, it struck many as out of touch. Donald Trump has long been criticized for his policies on reproductive rights, particularly after appointing Supreme Court justices who voted to overturn Roe v. Wade. His stance on abortion has alienated a significant number of female voters, particularly those who view reproductive rights as central to their personal freedoms.
Adding to the awkwardness, Donald Trump described Republican Senator Katie Britt, who had explained IVF treatments to him, as “a fantastically attractive person,” further stirring controversy. His opponents, including Vice President Kamala Harris, have pointed out the inconsistency between Trump’s rhetoric and his policies. Harris described his IVF comments as “bizarre” and emphasized how Trump’s past actions have harmed women and families. With polls showing significant gaps in support among women, Trump’s attempt to win over female voters through humor may have backfired.
Abortion Rights: Trump Walks a Fine Line
A critical moment in the town hall came when Trump was questioned about his stance on abortion. While Trump takes credit for ending nationwide abortion rights by appointing conservative Supreme Court justices, he also insists that the issue should be decided by individual states. His response underscores the tightrope he walks—trying to please his conservative base while not alienating moderate voters, particularly women, who largely support reproductive rights.
Donald Trump’s stance on abortion is one of the main factors contributing to his low approval ratings among women. A recent New York Times/Siena College poll revealed that 56% of likely women voters support Kamala Harris, compared to just 40% for Trump. Among Black women, Harris holds an overwhelming lead, with 83% backing her. In battleground states like Georgia, where the gender gap is pronounced, Trump will need to do more than walk a fine line—he will need to clarify his position and offer policies that resonate with women.
Can Trump Overcome His Female Voter Deficit?
Trump’s town hall was a clear attempt to soften his image among women and address his well-documented struggles with this demographic. Although some women in the audience praised his policies, others expressed discomfort with his style and past behavior. Supporters like Kim Pelletier, a Republican from Pennsylvania, believe Trump’s policies on issues like immigration, crime, and the economy resonate with women. However, she acknowledged that his harshness and rhetoric can be off-putting.
Trump’s challenge is clear. While his policies may appeal to some women, his tone and past comments remain obstacles. To win over more female voters, political analysts suggest he must focus on policy rather than personality. As Susanne Green, another supporter, noted, “We don’t like his harshness, but on the other hand, his policies are effective.” Whether Trump can pivot in time for the 2024 election remains to be seen, but it is clear that women will play a decisive role in determining the outcome.
